A Term Paper Discussing the Characterization of Solomon
             By Randy Hawley, DCC6, "Literature of the Israelite Kingdom",
             As we study the Scriptures we are confronted with the various ways and means that God communicates with, and acts through, various peoples, cultures and nations. We must also recognize that God in His omniscience may choose to use people and means that we do not fully understand. Such is the case with Rahab the harlot (Josh 2:1-21), in which God not only uses someone outside the chosen the race, but a woman of questionable character. God choosing to use the unlikely candidate of a prostitute to achieve His promise to the Israelites, the promise of occupying a land flowing with milk and honey (Exodus 3:8). In this paper we will see that God, in spite of what Solomon does or does not do, will achieve His plans and purposes for the nation Israel.
             Our first look into the character of Solomon is found in the first chapter of I Kings and unfortunately it is one that does nothing to give us any clear impressions as to the character of Solomon. As we see the story unfolding and the characters being introduced, Solomon is very much in the background, almost a hiding figure, if you wish. With others such as Nathan and Bathsheba, doing their 'scheming' best to ensure Solomon succeeds his father David, as King of Israel. Right at the outset of the chapter we are beginning to question why the narrator is leaving Solomon in the background. Then when we finally hear from Solomon, we are left with resolving the issue of first impressions. Is it a good first impression of Solomon, or a bad first impression?
             Walsh would have us believe that this first impression is a positive one . Solomon from all indications thus far, is the rival of Adonijah for the throne of their father David and when they finally meet in verse 53 of I kings, Solomon is shown to be merciful toward his brother Adonijah2. Indeed...